Adventist Mission Departments of Southeastern Philippine Union Mission (SePUM) and Southern Mindanao Mission (SMM) continue their collaborative, holistic outreach to our Muslim brothers and sisters. On August 9–10, during the third round of their initiative, they distributed school supplies and provided meals to 376 children across four Madrassahs.
A Madrassah is a learning institution where students study the Qur’an, Hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad), Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), and Arabic language and literature. Occasionally, subjects such as mathematics, logic, and natural sciences are also integrated into the curriculum.
Madrassah students typically attend formal schools—either government-run or private—from Monday to Thursday, and devote Fridays to worship. On weekends, they attend Madrassah classes to deepen both their spiritual and intellectual growth, an exemplary practice of nurturing worthy to be replicated.
On Sabbath afternoon, August 9, the team visited Purok 2 in Barangay Rubber, Purok 1 Lapo, and Sitio Beu in Brgy. Sulit, Polomolok, South Cotabato. They supported 166 schoolchildren with food, ball pens, notebooks, and copies of the Filipino version of Patriarchs and Prophets,a work by Mrs. Ellen G. White that resonates with Islamic values.
The following day, they engaged with a larger Madrassah community at Al-Madrasahtol Juhaida Al-Islamia in Sitio Dampilan, Lumakil, Maasim, Sarangani Province. They were warmly welcomed by Punong Barangay Hon. Ascar C. Malimping, Kagawad Madini Abdulbali, and Secretary Nor-en Malimping.
This school serves 210 students from Kindergarten to high school (Madrasa Sanawi), along with 39 Ummahad (mothers) who are also pursuing education. Ten Azatidz (ISAL teachers) guide their studies in Islamic Studies and Arabic Language.
Pastor Jonathan Hemoroz, Adventist Mission Director of SePUM, together with his wife Ma'am Marjurie, Administrative Assistant for Children's Ministries being raised in a Muslim neighborhood in Zamboanga City during her childhood days, led the activities with a heartfelt desire to share love and build bridges. He emphasized that the bond between Muslims and Adventists can be strengthened by recognizing the shared heritage of Isaac and Ishmael—half-brothers whose descendants continue to reflect that brotherhood today.
These efforts were made possible through the support of Pastor Dr. Abner P. Dizon, a seasoned missiologist and educator, currently serving as Director of Interfaith Services for Muslim, Secular, and Postmodern Ministries at the Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. His work is supported by Worldwide Involvement on New Global Strategies (WINGS) Inc.
Pastor Ian Basco, SMM Associate Publishing Director and newly appointed Adventist Mission / 1000 Missionary Movement / Go Gospel Outreach / Global Mission Pioneers Director of SMM, expressed joy at the growing Adventist-Muslim relations, which are actively engaging resources and influence to foster understanding.With the help of Ustadz Abdul Mutilan and Ustadha Lea Peñaranda Mutilan, meaningful connections were established, and more collaborative activities are anticipated.
“This is the first time a group has come to us with such blessings for both children and adults,” shared Bae Shirley Alip, Federation President of the Moro Women's Association in Maasim.
“I am happy to be here witnessing this time of sharing that despite the distance, you still have the love to visit our far-flung community. We will always be pleased to welcome you anytime,” Punong Barangay Hon. Ascar Malimping said during his welcome speech.
The school buildings beside the mosque—donated by Hadji Morsib Malimping and his family—stand as a testament to the community’s commitment to nurturing Islamic faith beginning their young age.
Adventists hold deep respect for Muslims—not only due to shared beliefs, but because love and understanding are central to Christlike ministry.
Muslims believe in one sovereign God (Allah), who created the world in six days and rules with justice and compassion. Though beyond comparison, He is near to us, hearing and responding to prayer. Arabic-speaking Jews and Christians also use the name Allah, meaning “The God.”
Islam teaches that God has sent many prophets throughout history—many of whom are familiar to Christians and Jews—including Abraham, Moses, Elijah, David, Jonah, John the Baptist, and Jesus. Muslims believe Jesus was born of the virgin Mary, performed miracles, and is the Messiah. Muhammad is regarded as the final prophet.
Like Christians, Muslims believe in a coming Day of Judgment. Signs will precede it, including the rise of a false messiah and the return of Jesus. On that day, the dead will be raised and judged. Those who submitted to God and lived righteously will enter Paradise; others will face separation from God.
Mrs. Ellen Gould White, an American writer whose scribbles guide readers all through the years, said: “No distinction on account of nationality, race, or caste, is recognized by God. He is the Maker of all mankind. All men are of one family by creation, and all are one through redemption. His love is so broad, so deep, so full, that it penetrates everywhere. Whatever the difference in religious belief, a call from suffering humanity must be heard and answered.” — Christ’s Object Lessons, p. 386.4
Apostle Paul in his realization that God's favor is not limited to the Jewish people but extends to all nations, regardless of their ethnicity, as long as they demonstrate faith and righteous living, said: 'Truly I understand that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who fears him and does what is right is acceptable to him." —Acts 10:34–35
Let us continue sharing respect and love to attain lasting peace.
Assalamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuhu. “May peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you.”
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